Fall Fest committee looks to community for help

Photo by Colin Deppen -
The rain at the 2011 Bavarian Fall Fest did not deter this cheery group of attendees, who seemed to enjoy the face painting, entertainment and other activities at the event, held at the Diamond, the Market Street parking lot and other venues in downtown St. Marys.

The first year the Bavarian Fall Fest was held, attendance was good, not great. The second year, it poured down rain. Committee organizers are hoping the third year is the charm to make the festival a lasting event in St. Marys.
Fall Fest Committee member Paula Weyant said organizers wanted to develop the event to provide a fun experience for St. Marys residents, highlight the town's heritage and give vendors and participants an economic boost.
"The first year we wanted to do it because there wasn't anything like it in the community anymore, and we felt we had to do something to showcase St. Marys for the weekend," Weyant said.
The first festival was held at various locations all over town.
At last year's festival, merchants and vendors gathered at the Diamond, the Market Street parking lot and other venues in downtown St. Marys, where there were activities for the entire family, and there were associated specials and events at stores throughout the area.